Frequently Asked Questions

1.    Discuss your goals with leadership and/or stakeholders.
2.    Click on "Apply For SASA" and complete the supplemental information.

3.    Submit your initial application request and $230 fee (or) ask for waiver.

4.    A SASA representative will contact you within 24 - 48 hours.

5.    Once provided, download, review, and complete the initial checklist.

6.    Gain access to the "secure portal."

The main goal of SASA is to help reduce crime, injury, and disruption within the K-12 learning environment.  Through our accreditation services, we create proactive systems of  accountability that build trust, safety, and peace of mind; improving  quality of life for students, staff, and families alike. 

 We love this question. Here’s why schools and organizations choose us:
    •    We help “soft targets” become more secure and less vulnerable.
    •    Leaders are empowered to take ownership of their operational safety.
    •    Stakeholders align around a shared mission of protection and accountability.
    •    Donors and communities show stronger support for safety-focused institutions.
    •    Accredited schools report greater confidence, improved marketing, and stronger returns. 

 SASA conducts independent evaluations that include:
    •    Independent third-party accreditation body
    •    Risk trend analysis (localized)
    •    Evaluation of documentation and systems
    •    Structured evaluation of observable systems

    •    Issues findings
    •    Review against publicly available statutes

    •    Demonstrated alignment with selected standards reviewed
    •    So much more... but, does not implement or manage operations

SASA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, funded through tax-deductible donations  from individuals, businesses, and charitable foundations. Accreditation membership dues go back into operational status for continued process improvement and staff support.

 Initial costs include:
    •    $230 application fee
    •    $840 site visit fee (initial)

SASA is a nonprofit organization. Contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Please consult your tax advisor. Full cost details and planning resources can be found under “Price Transparency” tab or in your SASA Portal. These documents are updated annually.

Timing varies based on readiness, but well-prepared organizations  typically complete the process in as little as three weeks however, schools can range from 2-18 months. Checklists  and prep materials are available in the portal. 

SASA accreditation is valid for three years, with periodic evaluations.  Renewal is conducted on the anniversary of your initial approval.
 

Yes. SASA performs random spot checks during the accreditation period at  no cost. If issues are found, accreditation status may be affected.  Organizations may also request a spot check, which incurs a discounted fee at half the standard visit rate. 

Yes. SASA accreditation is designed specifically for K–12 educational institutions.

While SASA’s accreditation framework is exclusive to schools, corporate and organizational entities may engage with SASA through separate partnership or affiliation arrangements. These affiliations do not constitute accreditation and are structured independently from SASA’s school accreditation process. Affiliation details and associated fee structures are outlined in SASA’s Price Transparency materials and are reviewed annually.